When the covid pandemic swept across the world, RT-PCR tests became household terms. But what many did not know, was that the dyes used in the testing of nucleic acids such as DNA and RNA, contain toxic and carcinogenic substances that endager the health of those who come in contact with it. Disposal of these dyes is also a serious problem.

Dr Fathima Benazir, the Chief Scientific Officer and co-founder at Azooka, a Bengaluru-based startup, and the maker of the world's only food grade safe fluorescent dye, Tinto Rang. The only Indian name in the molecular biology space, Tinto Rang is cheaper than other dyes in the market, making it a strong contender for lower income countries.